Abbas Pasha: A Ruler at Odds

This paper explores the legacy of Abbas Hilmi I the Viceroy of Egypt (from 1848 to 1854) and examines the ambiguities and largely blurred historical realities of his reign. It seeks to provide new insights to this rich but considerably shady period and reveal part of its mystery. More importantly, it re-reads Abbas pasha's history in the hope to produce a counter and rather unbiased narrative of his reign. It also aims to challenge the wide-held negative view of Abbas Hilmi I which long rested in the Egyptian collective memory. At the same time, the paper brings to light some other historical sources, either ignored or entirely passed by, that offer a key parameter in understanding Abbas' reign.